Jones Secures $1.86 Million for Washington County in Capital Budget

June 26, 2024

COLUMBUS- The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects throughout the state, announced State Rep. Don Jones (R-Freeport). The bill will allocate more than $4.2 billion for capital projects, including $717 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.

Specifically, the Marietta Castle Museum will receive $130,000 to preserve a piece of community history for generations to come.

Capital dollars will also be used locally for the following projects:

$100,000 to rejuvenate the Start Westward Memorial, preparing the structure for the commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary; and
$30,000 to repair the Anchorage, preserving the historical home for the enjoyment of generations to come.
“We are moving Ohio forward by investing in our state and local economies,” said Jones. “It is vital to our local economies that we continue to support projects that provide recreational opportunities, upkeep our infrastructure, and preserve our area’s rich history.”

Jones also secured funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund that will directly serve the 95th House District and the surrounding communities, including:

$750,000 to improve the Mid-Ohio Valley Aquatic Center, fostering recreational opportunities;
$350,000 to establish a new building in Decatur to store equipment, protecting equipment;
$213,909 to support the Boys and Girls Club of Marietta, increasing mentorship and outreach opportunities;
$150,000 to rehabilitate the roof at St. Mary of the Assumption, preserving infrastructure for current and future parishioners;
$79,000 to support the Betsy Mills Drainage project, ensuring the longevity of critical water infrastructure;
$50,000 to revitalize the Marietta College Women’s Softball Complex, promoting community sportsmanship; and
$13,740 to upgrade VFW Post 6387, supporting Ohio veterans.

In addition to these local investments, this legislation also includes additional statewide capital investments of:

$600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
$400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program; and
$397.6 million for higher education projects around the state.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to invest these funds in projects that will move Ohio forward in addition to the traditional capital budget.

Substitute House Bill 2 now heads to the Ohio Governor for a signature.